How do you manage scope creep in facilities engineering projects?

1 Define the scope clearly

The first step to prevent or minimize scope creep is to define the scope of your project clearly and explicitly. This means specifying the objectives, deliverables, requirements, assumptions, constraints, risks, and stakeholders of your project. You should also document the scope in a scope statement or a scope of work (SOW) that outlines the scope baseline, the acceptance criteria, and the change control process.

3 Control the scope changes

The third step is to control the scope changes that may arise during the project execution. You should establish a formal and transparent change control process that defines how to request, evaluate, approve, implement, and document scope changes. You should also assign roles and responsibilities for managing scope changes, and use tools such as a change log, a change request form, and a change impact analysis.

4 Monitor the scope performance

The fourth step is to monitor the scope performance of your project regularly and systematically. You should use metrics and indicators such as the scope variance, the earned value, and the customer satisfaction to measure the progress and quality of your project deliverables. You should also compare the actual scope performance with the planned scope baseline, and identify and resolve any deviations or issues.

5 Manage the stakeholder expectations

The fifth step is to manage the stakeholder expectations of your project throughout the project life cycle. You should engage and communicate with your stakeholders frequently and proactively, and update them on the project status, achievements, challenges, and changes. You should also solicit and incorporate their feedback, and address any gaps or conflicts between their expectations and the project scope.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?